2nd Principle: A Virtuous and Moral People

Commentary

Many Americans may have forgotten the intense debate that took place among the ancestors of the thirteen colonies in 1775–1776. As they stood on the brink of the American Revolution, they deliberated, “Do we have enough virtue to govern ourselves?”

The establishment of a republic meant self-governance without a king, requiring individuals to uphold a covenant among themselves—a feat that would have been unattainable if they were selfish and corrupt.

The first such covenant in North America was the Mayflower Compact, signed by 41 Pilgrims upon their arrival in Plymouth, Massachusetts, leading to the formation of the first self-governing colony in the Northeast.

The Founding Fathers comprehended the importance of virtue in constructing society. Benjamin Franklin asserted, “Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom. As nations deteriorate and become immoral, they require more masters.” Similarly, George Washington lauded the Constitution as the “palladium of human rights,” but cautioned that it would only endure as long as virtue prevailed among the populace.

The Moral Reform of 1775–1776

In 1775, there was a growing inclination towards independence. However, Americans questioned their moral preparedness for self-governance. Prominent figures like John Jay, Robert Morris, Robert Livingston, and John Dickinson were among the skeptics.

Nevertheless, British oppression gradually sparked patriotic fervor, inspired by leaders known for their “admired virtue,” such as John Adams, George Washington, Richard Henry Lee, and Josiah Quincy.

Thomas Paine’s pamphlet Common Sense resonated widely, selling half a million copies in a population of 2.5 million. Paine argued that Americans, known for their industry and frugality, were far less corrupt than Europeans, who indulged in “luxury, indolence, amusement, and pleasure.” This sentiment fostered national pride and public virtue.

In 1775–1776, Americans underwent a period of introspection as newspapers highlighted societal shortcomings. This led to a movement of self-sacrifice and reform across the colonies, with many individuals recognizing their responsibilities to the community.

A historian described these years as a time of unity and renunciation, where communities set aside petty conflicts and united in purpose.

The Self-Sacrificing Boycott

Prior to independence, in an effort to persuade England to grant the colonies self-governance, Americans initiated a voluntary boycott on imported English goods. This boycott brought financial hardship to many, yet people willingly participated.

A young James Madison lauded this unity, observing that “a spirit of liberty and patriotism animates all degrees and denominations of men.”

To grasp the anxiety of that era, it is essential to understand the historical context: Americans questioned whether they and future generations could possess enough virtue, knowing that without it, the republic and the Constitution would be unsustainable.

Following the success of the Revolution, Samuel Adams expressed his gratitude, stating, “I thank God that I have lived to see my country independent and free… it depends on her virtue.” His cousin John Adams, later the second President, remarked, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.”

Where Does Virtue Come From

The Founding Fathers pondered how to instill virtue in individuals. They believed that virtue is not inherited or innate; it must be taught and practiced consistently.

They identified three primary locations for nurturing virtue: the home, school, and church. Benjamin Franklin stressed the importance of educating youth in wisdom and virtue, noting, “nothing is more crucial for the public good.”

He also remarked that “bad habits and vices of the mind, like diseases of the body, are more easily prevented in youth than cured in adults.”

Virtue’s Root in Faith

The Founders recognized the connection between morality and faith. They believed that morality is rooted in faith and cannot endure without it.

George Washington, in his farewell address, stated, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” He also emphasized that religion and morality are “essential supports” for political prosperity, cautioning against assuming that morality can be upheld without religion.

As morality is crucial to a republic, the Founding Fathers posed a critical question: how can a nation’s morality be preserved? They addressed this in the next founding principle.

Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.